Ninja vs. Chicago Harmonicas: The collision between classics and innovation
The Ninjia and Chicago are equipped with a round ABS mouthpiece but feature vastly different styles.
Why do these two harmonicas use round mouthpieces?
Because compared to regular mouthpieces, round ones make it easier to hit single notes accurately and are more beginner-friendly.
What's the difference between them?
The main difference lies in the size of the reeds of the two products. The reeds in the mid-low range of the Chicago model are wider, while those in the high range are narrower. In terms of the material of the cover plates, Ninja is made of copper, while Chicago is made of stainless steel. Other differences are more obvious in terms of the overall design.
Which color do you like?
Where do their cover designs differ?
🧩Ninja
Comes with a high-end copper cover that has an electroplated frosted finish, resistant to fingerprints and scratches, helping the harmonica maintain its condition over the long term. The concave arc design of the cover enhances grip, making it comfortable for extended play.
🧩Chicago
Equipped with a stainless-steel cover plates. Features a rear cover with a perforated design that enhances volume projection. The side cover plates have large perforations to ensure even sound diffusion. Overall, its design is optimized for a pleasant beginner experience.
Maybe you want to feel the difference in their sounds with your ears.
🧩Ninja
Delivers a glamorous blues tone that stands out. It features premium phosphor bronze reeds ensuring rich and authentic blues sound quality.
👉Click here and experience the sound of Ninja with your ears.
🧩Chicago
Offers reliable and clear notes, ideal for beginners mastering breath control. It performs well in bending, aiding in the learning of basic techniques.
👉Click here and experience the sound of Chicago with your ears.
| Ninja | Chicago | |
| Mouthpiece | Round, ABS round resin (eco-friendly, kid-friendly) | Round, ABS round resin (eco-friendly, kid-friendly) |
| Reed | Phosphor bronze | Phosphor bronze |
| Sound | Glamorous blues sound | Reliable, clear sound for learning |
| Cover | Brass | Stainless-steel |
| price | $39.99 USD | $32.99 USD |
Core Difference
Ready to find your match? Click the model below to buy now!
3 comments
Due to the lack of replacement reed plates currently at the Big German Company, I bought a Bb John Lee aka Assassin, just to have a Bb harp in my kit. I though it would be OK until I could replace my reedplates in my Rocket harp.
Long story, short: I was more than impressed with the build quality, the tuning, the tone, and the playability of your Assassin/John Lee. What a wonderful harp, easily the best one I’ve purchased in a long time.
So, I ordered an F Paddy Assassin and a Chicago model, just for fun. And again, I am truly impressed with both JDR harmonica models. You might call the Chicago a beginner’s harmonica, but it is a high quality instrument. I’ve been playing the harps from the top 2 German brands for years, and I think JDR is going to become a major player in the harmonica world, as more pros get their lips around your excellent instruments.
The Assassin is the best out-of-the-box playing experience I have had with any harmonica. The Chicago did not disappoint. I will definitely be getting more of your harmonicas. You have a new fan. IMO, JDR’s are the best “bang for your buck” harmonicas on the market.
I am currently working on “The Peter Gunn Theme” for my Instagram, and the JDR assassin makes it so much easier to play the iconic riff in that tune.
Thank you, JDR people. Keep up the good work!
Mitchel Evans aka Professaa
Prices
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